Using a backplate pad for storage

[rhodges]

I see backplate back pads advertised saying you can store your smb or lift bag behind them, does anyone do this? I'm looking for a storage solution for my lift bag or wetnotes but usually dive wet and have no pockets. Seems like your stuff could fall out. Any input is greatly appreciated

 

[chrpai]

I don't have a pad and keep my DSMB clipped on my rear d-ring. But to be honest, I know several divers with BP/W and pad (mostly Halcyon) that fold up and insert their lift bags into the pouch and frankly it seems like a better solution. I just haven't bothered to convert yet.

 

[Dr. Lecter]

I use the H storage pak, and it works reasonably well. A 4.5' DSMB will usually stay in place when stored there and the 'tai' comes out in just the right place to be clipped to the butt d-ring for security. However, restowing while in the water can be an exercise in frustration if you're wearing gloves, and the simple open bottom does lead to the damn thing falling out from time to time--usually just as you stand up to jump in for another dive.

I've been considering adding some kind of snap or velcro to the center of the pak's pocket opening to fix it.

 

[fisheater]

Shorts with pockets is an easier and more versatile solution.

 

[ams511]

This thread my provide some information for you.

 

[RJP]

Shorts with pockets is an easier and more versatile solution.

Unless you're diving a dry suit, it which case it's not.

 

[Tortuga68]

OP said he mostly dives wet

Halcyon storage packs are okay for larger SMBs, until the elastic stratches. Tek shorts are also a good solution. For wetnotes if I'm diving a shorty I just stick them up the leg. Other BP pockets can be pretty useless, like the OMS one for example, lucky if you can fit your finger in there let alone get something out of it during a dive

 

[fdarden]

I had one of those backplate pocket thingies. I ended up cutting it off and throwing it away I got so frustrated with it. Empty it was uncomfortable compared to the bare plate (like having a pebble in your shoe) with an SMB inside of it I knew almost instantly that it would be a problem. Besides you need to carry a spool too, right? Some of them have foam which can in some cases require several pounds of weight to sink. Dont waste your money I cannot see how anyone actually uses these things other than for decoration.. Lately I have been using a pair of dive shorts with pockets, and I also keep an emergency 10' SMB in a pouch under my backplate. I keep a 250' finger spool and a small lift bag all ready to go in my pocket, as well as a 100 lb lift bag that I can use for lifting large items such as abandoned anchors.

 

[doctormike]

Unless you're diving a dry suit, it which case it's not.

Haven't seen many people wearing dry suits that don't have pockets, but I guess it's possible. That's one of my favorite features of my new Santi - well designed pockets. I added them to my old dry suit, but I like the Santi ones better. In either case, bungee loops are important. I guess if one had a dry suit without pockets, gluing one or two on would be a good idea.

When I dive wet, I use pocket shorts.

I think that pockets are a much better solution than jamming an SMB behind a backplate pad or in one of those storage pockets that hang off the back of the plate.

 

[rhodges]

Is there any kind of pocket that can be permanently attached to my wetsuit? I would rather not put shorts on over my wetsuit